From its unparalleled sun sets to the inspiring coastal landscape, Big Sur is the deal destination for couples looking to tie the knot. As locals who have taken countless road trips to explore the great outdoors of Big Sur and Carmel-by-the-sea, we know the perfect spots to elope in Big Sur! When thinking through your Big Sur elopement, we recommend thinking of your ceremony and reception separately. Ceremony locations can often take place in the beautiful natural scenery you often see pictured. Between the redwood forests, the ocean front, and coastal cliff-side, you have a lot of diverse backdrops to choose from! This extensive guide includes Big Sur Elopement Locations, Big Sur Airbnbs and a Big Sur wedding cost breakdown!
Why should you elope in Big Sur?
You should elope in Big Sur because of the scenic coastal drive, the easily accessible state parks, and the beautiful ocean-front settings. From the sunny coastal views to the evergreen forests, Big Sur is a beautiful, highly sought after wedding destination – and for good reason.
Here are just some of the reasons to elope in Big Sur!
- Iconic Views: Scenic setting with vast forestry for miles and views of the great pacific ocean
- Warm Weather: April and May are the best months to get married
- Recreation: Butterfly exhibits, Water sports, and so much more!
- Intimate: Perfect for small weddings and elopements!
- Gorgeous Hikes: Big Sur is known for its iconic views and winding trails, take a hike up one of its many rocky landscapes or lustrous forests, and see where adventure leads you!
Big Sur Elopement Gallery
Where can you elope in Big Sur?
You can elope at Garapatta or Pfeiffer Big Sur. There are many locations to elope in Big Sur, both public and private. Public locations will require a special use permit for a wedding ceremony, whereas private venues have food and beverage minimums to keep in mind. Big Sur elopement locations range from state parks to various local venues, and each come with their own pros and cons. We have attached a list below of some of the best places to elope in Big Sur for a wedding!
- Iconic Big Sur Coastline
- Bixby Bridge
- Garappata State Park
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
- Pfeiffer Beach
- Glen Oaks Big Sur
- Ventana Big Sur
- Loma Vista Gardens
- Point 16
- Post Ranch Inn
- Wind and Sea
- Big Sur Lodge
Big Sur Airbnb Wedding and Elopement Venues
Whether you are eloping in Big Sur, or inviting your nearest and dearest to a destination wedding, these Big Sur Airbnbs make for great reception venues venues to tie the knot! Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, or a west coast adventure by the water, you can’t go wrong eloping at an eclectic Airbnb, and celebrating your love in the heart of nature! We’ve searched high and low for the best places to stay, so here are our top picks for the best Big Sur Airbnbs in California.
Big Sur Renaissance Valley Villa with Pool and Hot Tub
Capacity: 10 guests
Floor plan: · 7 bedrooms | 11 beds | 4 baths
Amenities Include:
- Dishwasher, fireplace
- Modern design
- Pool and Hot Tub
- Family-friendly
- Pet friendly
Interested? Book your Airbnb Wedding today using the Wedy app!
Big Sur Monterey Bay Farmhouse on Artichoke Farm near Pacific Coast
Capacity: 14 guests
Floor plan: 4 bedrooms | 7 beds | 2 baths
Amenities Include:
- Farmhouse quality
- Vintage interior
- Fireplace and Grill
- Sunlit Patio
- Part of Airbnb Plus
Interested? Book your Airbnb Wedding today using the Wedy app!
Big Sur Monterey Bay Artichoke Farmhouse
Capacity: 10 guests
Floor plan: 3 bedrooms | 5 beds | 2 baths
Amenities Include:
- Farmhouse quality
- Fireplace and dishwasher
- Flat screen TV & free wifi
- Minimalistic interior design
- Part of Airbnb Plus
Interested? Book your Airbnb Wedding today using the Wedy app!
Big Sur Elopement Cost Breakdown
The cost of eloping in Big Sur is $4310 for an all-inclusive elopement package in 2024. See below for a detailed breakdown of cost.
- California Marriage License is $80 ($76 for public license, $80 for confidential)
- Wedy Wedding Planner is $850 (6 hours of planning and coordination)
- Wedding Photography is $2000 for 4 hours of coverage
- On Site Bridal Hair and Makeup is $450
- Custom Bouquet and Boutonnière is $550
- Licensed Officiant to Perform at The Ceremony is $380
With Wedy: You can build the wedding package that is right for you and your budget. The best part? No minimums. You get to pick and choose the services you truly love. Our Wedding Planning App makes it possible for couples to create their dream wedding packages – download the Wedy app today!
Frequently Asked Questions about Eloping in Big Sur
A Big Sur Marriage License will cost you $76 for a public license, and $80 for a confidential license. To apply, you can visit the Monterey County website, and apply online, or follow the instructions to apply by mail. For California residents, you can also obtain a license in any other California county.
Marriage licenses are available through the Monterey County Clerk and are valid for 90 days in any California county. The Monterey County Courthouse is located in Salinas and open Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM. For more information, see here.
You will need a special use permit to hold an elopement or wedding in Big Sur, that is not at an established venue. The permits are issued by California State Parks, who allow one (1) special event per day, so make sure you book in advance.
Elopement Permits are for very small, simple weddings without decorations in unconventional locations that must be hiked in to. All locations are outdoors, without any coverings, and bookings can be made up to 6 months in advance. You can find more information here!
Big Sur Wedding Planning App
With the Wedy App, we can help you find elopement packages, vendors, and venues all over Big Sur, California! Wedy is your one-stop shop for the most beautiful all-inclusive Big Sur elopement packages Download our app today and find out how you can get married in Big Sur, California.
